Once your child hits the one-year mark, soothe their sore gums with baby teething biscuits and snacks that also give them a nutritious boost. This magical remedy is known by many names—teething biscuits, teething crackers, or baby rusks—and they’re easy to make yourself with these quick recipes, including no-bake versions, wheat-free biscuits, and sugar-free teething biscuits too. So the next time you see baby gnawing, you’ll be prepared with a homemade teething biscuit.

1. Healthy Homemade Teething Biscuits

Oats, bananas, and coconut oil are all you’ll need for these teething crackers. Add vanilla and spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg for extra flavor, or keep them plain. Super Healthy Kids has the recipe.

2. Quinoa Teething Crackers

Protein-rich quinoa is the only ingredient in this crispy cracker. Cradle Rocking Mama blends the nutritious grain in three forms (cooked flakes, uncooked flakes, and quinoa flour) to get consistency kids like.

3. Sweet Potato and Chamomile Teething Biscuits

These flavorful biscuits from My Kids Lick the Bowl cleverly include chamomile from a tea bag to relax a child who’s suffering from teething pain, along with sweet potato and oat flour.

4. Apple, Banana, or Pumpkin Teething Biscuits

Mama Natural shares three recipes, highlighting apple, banana, and pumpkin. All three are gluten-free, thanks to a combination of rolled oats and steel-cut oats as the base. They also include maple syrup and baking spices for sweetness and baby-friendly flavor that makes this homemade teething biscuit top our list.

Related: 30 Best Baby Cups, Bowls, Plates & Utensils

a baby with a big smile sits in a crib waiting for a baby teething biscuit
iStock

5. Oat & Banana Drops

Momtastic offers up this classic vegan recipe full of oats and mashed bananas. Choose overripe bananas for sweetness and add a few spices like cinnamon and cardamom. In 15 minutes, you’ll have a tasty homemade teething biscuit.

6. Fruit & Vegetable Teethers

Teething biscuits don’t get any healthier than these fruit and veggie snacks from Weelicious. Thinly slice fruits and veggies like sweet potato and kiwi, and then put them in a dehydrator. If you don’t have a dehydrator, this banana leather version requires only an ovenand is a hit with older kids too.

7. Pear-rific Oat-tastic Teething Biscuits

The name of Everyday Champagne‘s recipe says it all. Pears plus oats=awesome teething treats. Mix together oat flour, baby cereal, pear puree, and allspice to make a sweet biscuit that’s free of added sugar or salt.

8. Grain-Free Teething Biscuits

Created by a nurse, these grain-free teethers from Real Food RN are packed with nutrients. The ingredient list is longer than some: coconut and cassava flour, applesauce, maple syrup, molasses, egg yolk plus spices. But the extra effort is worth it, as each ingredient packs a nutritional punch. The recipe also includes clove, a spice that some say soothes teething pain. When stored in the freezer, the biscuits last for months and offer a cool treat for your little one’s gums.

Related: Banish Bland: 10 Spiced-Up Baby Vegetable Recipes

9. Sugar-Free Baby Rusks

You probably have the ingredients in your kitchen right now for these sugar- and salt-free homemade teething biscuits from the Welsh-Italian Chiapa sisters: eggs, flour, baking powder, and applesauce (or another fruit puree). Add cinnamon, orange zest, or Parmesan for extra flavor.

10. Healthy Homemade Teething Biscuits

Boys Ahoy‘s recipe calls for rice cereal, flour, coconut oil, cinnamon and banana (or applesauce). Roll out the dough and cut with your favorite cookie cutter to create crisp mum-mums in fun, baby-friendly shapes.

11. The Natural Mum’s Super Easy Rusk Recipe

With only two ingredients, you can whip up these teething treats from the Natural Mum anytime. All you need is a fruit or veggie puree and a few cups of spelt flour. Because the puree choice is up to you, the flavor options are endless. Try sweet potatoes one day and peaches the next.

Make sure to capture all those toothy grins—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids. 

I was at the zoo with a baby strapped to my chest, another in a stroller, and one getting uncomfortably close to Ozzie, the zoo’s dominant silverback gorilla when she caught my eye. The zookeeper stood off to the side, patiently chopping fruit, meat, and veggies into bite-sized pieces. Just like I do. Every. Single. Meal. Standing at the zoo, I realized that feeding toddlers (yep, even the picky eaters) really boils down to this: make it easy for them to feed themselves, make it pretty, and keep the risky food to a minimum, or you’ll end up tossing out the whole shebang. Below are my toddler dinner ideas cliff notes from my zoo, er, kitchen.

Toddler Dinner Ideas: Safe Bets

  • Mediterranean Snacking Board: hummus, pita slices, cucumbers, red pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, feta, and sliced almonds.
  • Pasta tossed with rotisserie chicken, parmesan, and peas (reserve a little of the pasta water and mix it in to make the cheese gooey)
  • Baked, sliced sweet potatoes brushed with olive oil, topped with sliced avocado and hard-boiled egg (scrambled eggs work too).
  • Tacos with finely shredded chicken, cheese, and black beans, and a side of corn on the cob.
  • Whole grain English muffins with marinara and mozzarella (toasted in the oven), with orange slices.
  • Pancakes (add cinnamon to the mix) smeared with peanut butter and topped with thin slices of apple.
  • Boiled eggs, halved and salted, with broccoli, carrots, and snap peas (with ranch for dipping).
  • Broccoli, finely chopped, with shredded carrots, sauteed with ground turkey, soy sauce, and an optional spoonful of brown sugar.
  • Cereal and smoothies (I know, but it’s okay every once in a while, and the smoothies are packed with nutrients).
  • Scrambled egg and cheese burritos with cucumbers and tiny tomatoes on the side.
  • Pesto alphabet pasta with peas.
  • Mac & Cheese with sneaky veggies (tiny-sized pieces of broccoli, peas, or kale).
  • Toddler Charcuterie: Turkey Pepperoni, boiled, halved eggs, cubes of cheddar cheese, veggies, and a dipping sauce.
  • Cheese quesadillas (add beans or ground beef or rotisserie chicken for extra protein) with tomatoes and sour cream.
  • Avocado toasts on whole grain with kosher salt and diced shrimp.
  • “Choose your own adventure” burrito bowls with seasoned ground turkey, diced tomatoes, avocados, sour cream, and shredded lettuce options.
  • Alphabet pasta with jar tomato sauce, food processed with a handful of spinach or cooked carrots.
  • Baked chicken tenders and cooked carrot coins (dredge tenders in flour, dip in egg, and roll in Panko, then bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until done).
  • Baked, diced sweet potatoes with cinnamon and rotisserie chicken with sour cream and honey dipping sauce.
iStock

If You’re Feeling Lucky

  • Garbanzo beans, diced avocado, and feta cheese tossed with a little lemon juice and salt.
  • Couscous with peas, mint, and halved mini tomatoes.
  • Quinoa muffins (use 1 cup of cooked quinoa for every 1 egg, plus mix-ins like ham and cheese cubes or spinach and diced tomato, baked in muffin cups for 20 minutes at 350 degrees).
  • Deconstructed meatloaf (add salt and pepper to ground meat, bake until done, and serve with a side of ketchup, mashed potatoes, and green beans).
  • Curried chicken salad (baked chicken, cream cheese, and a spoonful of mayo, creamed) on cucumber slices and whole-grain toast.
  • Garbanzo beans with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.

Related: 10 Snacking Tips to Keep Your Kids Happy & Healthy

Don’t Forget to Sneak Nutrition into Dessert

  • Banana ice cream (puree sliced frozen bananas; add things like peanut butter, cinnamon, or honey for a twist)
  • Fruit pizza: Roll out and bake refrigerated croissants, spread on cream cheese, top with sliced fruit; cinnamon sprinkle optional)
  • Berries and sugar-free whipped cream.
  • Chocolate-dipped (or chocolate chip-studded, if you don’t want to wash an extra dish) bananas.
  • Frozen grapes, halved.
  • Canned pumpkin puree with cinnamon and whipped cream.

Sometimes you just need a few toddler dinner ideas to get you started. I hope my go-to’s (after all my trial-and-error) will help you find something they’ll eat without coaxing.

Wondering how to make hot chocolate bombs? It’s easier than you think

One of the best things about the colder months is settling in with a cup of hot cocoa. Rather than waste your tastebuds on a packet of instant mix, why not whip up a batch of something sweeter? Hot chocolate bombs can be made into all sorts of shapes, sizes, and all sorts of flavors, and fillings. Basically, it’s the sweetest afternoon activity. If you’d rather go with a traditional cup of hot chocolate, try these unique recipes!

Milk Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bombs

Glue Sticks Blog

Want to start with your basic, delicious hot chocolate bomb? Here's your recipe! It takes just three ingredients and a silicone mold to get your hot cocoa skills moving.

Get the entire recipe at Glue Sticks Blog.

Instant Pot Hot Cocoa Bombs

Cooking with Karli

No need to buy an extra mold when you use this recipe that repurposes that silicone egg mold you have lying around! Grab your hot cocoa powder, marshmallows, and all the fixings you like in your hot chocolate and you have everything you need to make homemade cocoa bombs.

Find the full recipe at Cooking with Karli.

Unicorn Hot Chocolate Bombs

A Magical Mess

These magical treats are almost too pretty to eat. Using some creative icing decorations, unicorn hot cocoa bombs make the perfect treat at a little girl's party or as a gift!

Find all the details at A Magical Mess.

LEGO Man Hot Cocoa Bombs

Mommy Musings

Candy melts are the key to making your own LEGO man hot cocoa bombs. These sweet-tasting treats can be complimented with any number of fillings, especially tons of marshmallows!

Head to Mommy Musings for the complete recipe.

Pink Instant Pot Hot Chocolate Bombs

You can stop looking for a Valentine's Dessert recipe! This adorably pink hot cocoa bomb is kid-friendly, doesn't require sealing two halves together, and uses your Instant Pot!

Find the full recipe at Princess Pinky Girl.

Mexican Hot Chocolate Bombs

Julie Blanner

Warm spices to the rescue! This recipe pairs cinnamon and cayenne pepper which results in a creamy and warming feeling you'll drink right up.

Head to Julie Blanner for the full recipe.

Snickerdoodle Hot Chocolate Bombs

The Denver Housewife

Snickerdoodle lovers: you're gonna want this recipe. White chocolate, cinnamon, and sugar come together that will not only have you gulping down the entire mug but maybe dipping a cookie in, too.

Check out the recipe at The Denver Housewife.

Frozen Hot Cocoa Bombs

Wondermom Wannabe

You won't want to let this recipe go. Frozen hot cocoa bombs are beautifully blue from candy melts that make the entire process a breeze. These are definitely Elsa-approved.

Find the whole recipe at Wondermom Wannabe.

White Chocolate Hot Cocoa Bombs

Scrambled Chefs

Milk chocolate not your thing? This recipe combines white chocolate, almond bark, and peppermint candy to give that holiday feeling, all year long.

Find the recipe at Scrambled Chefs.

Lucky Charms Hot Chocolate Bomb

Hugs & Cookies XOXO

Well, aren't these the prettiest hot cocoa bombs ever? Made with bright Lucky Charms cereal, they make the perfect option for St. Patrick's Day!

Find the entire recipe at Hugs & Cookies XOXO.

Peanut Butter Hot Cocoa Balls

Everyday Family Cooking

Calling all PB lovers! This decadent dessert pairs the world's best creations: peanut butter and chocolate with a simple process using just your microwave.

Head to Everyday Family Cooking for all the instructions.

Cocoa Powder Hot Chocolate Bombs

Create Kids Club

Need a little extra kick of cocoa? This four-ingredient recipe is easy to whip up and store in the freezer! When you're having a chocolate craving, just pop in your mug!

Find all the details at Create Kids Club.

 

 

 

Finally, pumpkin season is here

Trader Joe’s does not disappoint when it comes to seasonal products, especially with regard to its pumpkin, apple, and Halloween goodies. You’ll find tasty autumnal flavors of all your favorite Trader Joe’s fall items including yogurt, pasta, donuts, and snacks. There are so many options that even picky eaters will find a thing or two to add to this month’s school lunches.

The fall beauty section is a real star with a pumpkin body scrub and pumpkin body butter that you’ll definitely want to snag. There’s even a giftable soap and lotion set in a lovely vanilla pumpkin scent. We’ve rounded up the most recent fall products—and be sure to check back as TJ’s continues to pack its shelves with fall goodness.

New Trader Joe’s Fall Items

La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Latte

pumpkin spice latte is a Trader Joe's fall item

Forget making a second stop at Starbucks and snag your favorite fall beverage at Trader Joe’s instead. This perfectly portable Pumpkin Spice Latte is found in the cold case and you’ll want to grab a few to get you through the school pickup line.

Gluten Free Pumpkin Ravioli

Pumpkin ravioli is a Trader Joe's fall item

You’ll find both the gluten-free and regular versions of this pasta during the fall season. We love it with an easy brown butter and sage sauce.

Ghosts & Bats Crispy Potato Snacks

We confess that we buy these “for the kids” but really they are for us. They are just $2.49/bag so you should just go ahead and get a few bags.

Cinnamon Brooms

If you want your house to smell like fall, snag one of these cinnamon brooms to hang on your door. Bonus: They easily switch over to Halloween decor once October hits.

Pumpkin O’s

Your day is made when you start it off with Pumpkin O’s in your bowl. They are vegan and gluten free and will run you just $2.99/box.

Non-Dairy Maple Oat Beverage

Non-dairy maple oat beverage is a Trader Joe's fall item

We love this addition to our morning coffee routine and know you will too.

Apple Cider Foaming Hand Soap

Apple Cider foaming soap is a Trader Joe's fall item

You’ll have the kids washing their hands all day when they can use this delicious-smelling foaming hand soap. It’s only $2.99 and lasts quite a while.

Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts are one of Trader Joe's fall items kids love

Another favorite in the apple cider category are these cinnamon-sugar coated apple cider donuts that are perfect when you warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Josephsbrau Oktoberfest

This full-bodied beer is perfectly priced to bring to your next fall gathering whether it’s a football game or Halloween party.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Body Butter

Pumpkin body butter is a popular Trader Joe's fall item

The pumpkin beauty products are on point this year and you’ll definitely want to buy a tub or two of this body butter to get you in the mood for all those pumpkin patch and apple farm visits.

Butternut Squash Italian Lasagne

When the temps dip, you’ll be glad you have this tasty dinner in your freezer. It is topped with pumpkin seeds and breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.

Apple & Pumpkin Hand Pies

Apple & Pumpkin hand pies are a Trader Joe's fall item

Perfectly portable, these hand pies are great to bring along for little ones to enjoy on the go.

Harvest Chili

The taste of the season is definitely Harvest Chili with its sweet and savory flavors. You’ll love the combination of black beans and sweet potatoes.

Mini Maple Flavored Marshmallows

We can think of so many ways to use up these mini marshmallows from topping squash casserole to adding to cinnamon hot cocoa. They are gluten free and vegan and are made with real maple syrup.

Vanilla Pumpkin Hand Soap & Hand Lotion

We love this cute box as it makes the perfect autumnal hostess gift to keep on hand for when you get invited to a last-minute Halloween party.

Pumpkin Greek Nonfat Yogurt

Sprinkle on a little pecan granola and this yogurt is the best way to start your day when there’s a chill in the air.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese

Spread some pumpkin cream cheese on your pancake bread or toasted bagel for a sweet and creamy treat.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Body Scrub

With a base of exfoliating brown sugar and mega-moisturizing pumpkin, sunflower, and jojoba seed oils, this body scrub is a must-buy addition to your beauty routine.

Maple Spiced Nut Mix

This is going to be your new favorite nut mix, we promise. It has maple-roasted almonds and pecans along with black pepper, dried cranberries, and pepitas.

Honeycrisp Apple Candle

These candles top our list of favorite scents so you’ll want to be sure to pick up enough to get you through to Thanksgiving.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cream Liqueur

Whether you sip this over ice or added to your after-dinner cup of pumpkin spice coffee, you’ll love having this sweet liqueur in your liquor cabinet.

Caramel Apple Mochi Ice Cream

If you like your chilled dessert with the flavor of caramel apples, this is the dessert for you. They come with 6 in a packet and are priced at $4.99.

You’ll want to make this yummy snack all year

Pumpkin bread that’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make? Yep, it’s true! This easy pumpkin bread recipe is perfect for the festive holiday season, especially when your time is limited since there is very little prep time or dirty dishes involved. Try making the pumpkin bread in a regular loaf pan, or if you’re looking for a unique present, bake the bread in a coffee tin or in old soup cans. Then wrap it up with cellophane or tissue paper and you’ve got yourself a great (and delicious) gift.

Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe Ingredients: 

1 (15 ounce) can of pumpkin puree
4 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup water
3 cups white sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground ginger

**this recipe will yield three 7″ x 3″ loaf pans. We suggest cutting the recipe in half if you don’t want that large of a portion. If you do cut the recipe in half, it will make one regular loaf.

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 7×3 inch loaf pans.

2. In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, water, and sugar until well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Stir the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture until just blended. Pour into the prepared pans.

3. Bake for about 50 minutes in the preheated oven. Loaves are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes.com

This easy blueberry muffin recipe is a favorite with our kids

For breakfast fare that never goes out of style look no further than this easy blueberry muffin recipe. Any home cook can whip up a batch of these classic blueberry muffins in about 10 minutes without any unusual ingredients or pro kitchen tools. The secret twist to this delectable eat? The streusel topping that adds a layer of cinnamon sugar goodness to this irresistible grab-and-go muffin.

Makes about 14 muffins

Ingredients:
2 Cups Flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups wild blueberries (Frozen are ok)
1/2 cup butter softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup milk

For the streusel top:
2 Tbs Flour
2 Tbs Sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tbs butter chilled

Method:
1. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a separate bowl beat butter and sugar until light. Beat in eggs and vanilla. You can either use an electric mixer or mix by hand with a wooden spoon.

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternating with milk until combined.

4. Coat the blueberries lightly with flour then fold the blueberries into the mixture.

5. Spoon batter into greased or paper-lined muffin tins.

6. To make the streusel topping, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until crumbly by using your fingers or a knife and fork. Sprinkle over muffins.

7. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

 

 

Indulge a little with the best hot chocolate spots in LA that will warm your heart (and soul) during this winter-y cold snap

There’s nothing more comforting on a cold and rainy day (and we’ve had our fair share of those lately) than a cozy cup of silky hot chocolate—guaranteed to brighten your spirits and warm your soul. But when you’re looking for the best hot chocolate near me, any old, run-of-the-mill cocoa won’t do! We’ve done some Nancy Drew-level sleuthing to uncover the best of the best hot chocolate in LA and are delivering each, delicious cup below. Ready for the best hot chocolate ever?

Best Hot Chocolate in LA

1. Café Demitasse

If you’re on the prowl for some of the dreamiest hot chocolate in LA, look no further than Café Demitasse in Santa Monica. Known for their Liquid Lavender Hot Chocolate with a huge, toasted marshmallow for dipping, this cozy coffee purveyor is likely to become a regular stop in your schedule—especially during chilly winter months. Enjoy a cup in shop or make it at home with their Lavender Hot Chocolate Kit that comes with 8 oz. of hot chocolate, 5 jumbo marshmallows, and a vial of lavender extract. There’s a reason they are rated as one of the best hot chocolate Santa Monica has to offer.

1149 Third St.
Santa Monica
Online: cafedemitasse.com

2. Lady Chocolatt

As one of the most impressive chocolate shops around, it’s no surprise Los Angeles’ Lady Chocolatt’s hot chocolate makes our list. This Brentwood standout handcrafts their chocolates in Belgium and has them flown to the shop, garnering a devout customer following. Though chocolate candy is the star here, Lady Chocolatt’s dark hot chocolate is far from an understudy—it’s truly some of the most decadent we’ve tasted and may just change your life—it’s that powerful.

12008 Wilshire Blvd.
Brentwood
Online: chocolatt.com

3. Chokolatta

While there is no longer a favorite hot chocolate Beverly Hills location (it recently closed), Chokolatta is still open for business in North Hollywood. With traditional Hot Chocolate and a Spicy Mayan flavor made from the finest cocoa beans available, you can’t go wrong. And if that’s not enough, the shop also sells a selection of chocolate covered strawberries, bon bons, and other delectable treats.

5264 Tujunga Ave.
North Hollywood
Online: chokolatta.biz

4. Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar

If regular hot chocolate isn’t doing it for you anymore, stop by the adorable Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar in Pasadena. Their extensive hot chocolate bar features a wide variety of assorted flavors to wet your whistle, including white chocolate, peppermint, salted caramel, campfire, P.B. cup, cupcake, and more. And if you prefer your hot chocolate frozen, they can handle that too.

1383 E. Washington Blvd.
Pasadena
Online: lavenderandhoneyespresso.com

5. ChocoVivo

ChocoVivo’s single-source bean to bar chocolate is a one-of-a-kind experience. Featuring one of the best hot chocolate menus we’ve seen, customization is the name of the game here. Customers choose the style of drink they want – whether it’s sipping chocolate, hot chocolate, iced hot chocolate, mocha hot chocolate, or frozen hot chocolate. Next, pick your base from various types of milk or filtered water. Lastly, choose the type of chocolate you desire – everything from 100% Cacao to Mayan Tradition and more. If that’s not enough, they have a fantastic selection of desserts as well.

12469 W. Washington Blvd.
Culver City
Online: chocovivo.com

6. La Monarca Bakery

La Monarca is always top of mind when Angelenos want to grab some mind-blowing Mexican pastries, but they also deliver the best Mexican hot chocolate Los Angeles has to offer. What starts with fair trade cacao ground in house, ends with a totally unique hot chocolate that’s both foamy and cinnamon-y with a kick. Or try the Champurrado—a delicious thick version of Mexican Hot Chocolate that pairs great with an order of conchas. You can also purchase containers of both mixes to go.

12 Locations across LA
Online: lamonarcabakery.com

7. Guelaguetza

Regarded by many critics as one of the best restaurants in the country, Guelaguetza isn’t just killing it at the food game, but the hot chocolate game as well. If you’re going grab a bite at this beloved dining star, don’t dare leave without trying their Mexican Hot Chocolate. Rich and creamy to the last sip, this is some of the tastiest artisanal Oaxacan chocolate you’ll ever have. They also have a hot chocolate gift set available for purchase so you can recreate the experience at home.

3014 W. Olympic Blvd.
Koreatown
Online: ilovemole.com

8. Churros Calientes

If you find yourself in West LA, Churros Caliente is well worth a stop. Their delicious Spanish style hot chocolate is even better with a side of the most mouthwatering churros this side of Madrid.

11521 Santa Monica Blvd.
West LA
Online: churroscalientes.com

9. Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop

Not only does the Hollywood Walk of Fame have Spiderman, Darth Vader, and a disheveled Elmo, but it also has some of the best hot chocolate in Tinseltown. Famed Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop features everything from Classic and Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa to Frozen Hot Cocoa and Decadent Drinking Chocolate. And if you happen to load up on some of those dreamy little chocolate squares during your visit, we’ll never tell.

6834 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood
Online: ghirardelli.com

10. Bardonna

While you won’t find it on their online menu, for those in-the-know, Bardonna on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica is one of the best places to get hot chocolate. Their one-of-a-kind hot chocolate bombs will delight both kids and adults alike—not to mention, a favorite spot to grab brunch (to balance out that sugar rush).

The drink is back for it’s 19th season

PSL season is here! Starbucks has announced that your fave pumpkin spice goodies are officially back in cafes starting Tues. Aug. 30.

Strap on those boots and grab a scarf on your way out the door to grab your first Pumpkin Spice Latte with its signature pumpkin, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. Ok fine, yes, it’s still in the 90’s but we can dream.

Also returning for another year is the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, plus the Apple Crisp Macchiato. This year, the drink is made with oatmilk and Starbucks Blonde Espresso as the standard recipe, making it Starbucks’ first fall nondairy beverage.

Starbucks

Starbucks fall food menu items are also making a comeback. Be sure to grab a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Pumpkin Scone or the Pumpkin Loaf (which is actually available all year long) and a sweet Owl Cake Pop.

If you’re picking up a pound of coffee, you’ll see new designs adorning each bag for the first time in 10 years. Each one tells the story about how that particular blend is made through vibrant colors and beautiful artistry.

Starbucks

Now for the good stuff: the MERCH. The fall season is also bringing a whole new lineup of water bottles, cold cups and hot cups with a festive feel.

Starbucks

Keep your eyes peeled as the limited edition cups that include a new orange Bling cup, periwinkle (it’s so on-trend this year) Kaleidescope cold cup, textured Rainforest water bottle, an ocean gradient mug, color changing cups and a six-pack fall hot cup set.

Starbucks

You may have to visit more than one location to find the cup of your choosing, as each cafe carries its own selection from the fall merchandise line. Don’t wait long, every year this limited edition collection sells out.

Pancakes, flapjacks, silver dollars—no matter what your kids call them, we know they love them. National Pancake Day is March 1 and IHOP is offering a free short stack per guest from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. If you prefer to explore a spot that’s more local, we’ve done the grueling work of finding the best spots in our brunch-loving city to find pancake paradise all year long. From plain ol’ tried and true to the gourmet, read on to find the top choices for every taste.

For Nutella goodness & rainbow cuteness: Sugar Factory

The insane double stack rainbow pancakes come with a fully colorful rainbow stack, warm maple syrup, powdered sugar and butter. They're served with chocolate chips, gummy bears, strawberries and whipped cream with rainbow sprinkles on the side. As a bonus, you get a Sugar Factory rubber ducky as a take-home gift. 

If rainbows aren't your thing, they have a Nutella-focused breakfast treat. It's topped with melted hazelnut chocolate, whipped cream, strawberries and served with warm maple syrup. 'Nuf said.

5445 Park Place, Rosemont & 55 E. Grand Ave., River North; Online: sugarfactory.com

For fruity delights: M.henry

The blackberry bliss cakes live up to their name. These heavenly hotcakes are pillows of pancake-y goodness with silky vanilla marscapone slathered on each bite. Topped with blackberries and an apple crisp-like crumble, they will make the whole family dream for days.

5707 N. Clark St., Andersonville; Online: mhenry.net

For sweet simplicity: Sweet Maple Cafe

No need to be fancy: These no-frill pancakes are made from an original family recipe and served with Vermont maple syrup and pure butter. The space itself is small and homey (with free parking across the street); it’ll remind you of rolling out of bed at Grandma’s to the smell of pancakes on the griddle.

1339 W. Taylor St., Little Italy; Online: sweetmaplecafe.com

For total indulgence: Bongo Room

Warning: If you let your littles indulge in more than a short stack they may be bouncing off the walls until the end of the day. The good news is you'll happily volunteer to clean their plates yourself. Pumpkin chai, caramelized apple, white chocolate & caramel pretzel. . . these over these over-the-top creations taste more like dessert than breakfast. And, selections change often, so keep visiting. 

1470 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wicker Park & 5022 N. Clark St., Andersonville; Online: thebongoroom.com

For birthday pancakes: Southport Grocery and Cafe

Whoever thought to use cupcake batter to make pancakes is probably more of a genius to your child than Albert Einstein. This cafe makes some of the best cupcakes in town, which translates perfectly to the not-too-sweet griddled version served with vanilla butter. Oh, by the way, did we mention they're gluten free?

3552 N. Southport Ave., Lakeview; Online: southportgrocery.com

For sheer variety: Walker Bros.

This North Shore mainstay (it’s been around for over 50 years!) knows flapjacks. The menu has over a dozen varieties from the kiddie favorite “little dollars” to the oven-baked thick and gooey apple cinnamon pancake. Each location is super kid-friendly with plenty of high chairs and spots to sit while you wait for your table. Because, let’s face it: There will be a wait.

Locations in Arlington Hts., Glenview, Highland Park, Lake Zurich, Lincolnshire, Wilmette and Schaumburg; Online: walkerbros.net

For good old fashioned goodness: Delia’s Kitchen

These pancakes are so delicious you’ll forget they could even be good for you! They’re made with healthy whole grain buckwheat and simplicity is key. The old-fashioned stack is served in a classic manner with butter and syrup. The only challenge may be ignoring the bacon pancakes listed on the menu. Be sure to try their blueberry lemon ricotta stacks. So, so, so good!

1034 W. Lake St., Oak Park; deliaskitchen.net

For the fluffiest around: Blueberry Hill

If large fluffy flapjacks smothered in fruit are your pancake style, this is your holy grail. Blueberry, pecan, banana and chocolate chip are just a few of the ways to top off your favorite breakfast treat.

Locations in Aurora, Darien, Homer Glen, Homewood, LaGrange, Oakbrook, Plainfield & Tinley Park; Online: blueberrybreakfastcafe.com

For a cultural twist: Svea Restaurant

Andersonville still brims with Scandinavian cultural influences, including the Swedish American Museum, which has a hands-on exhibition area for kids. But first, stop by Svea, an authentic Swedish restaurant-meets-diner. Try the paper-thin Swedish pancakes served with the fun-to-say, slightly tart lingonberry jam.

5236 N. Clark St., Andersonville; facebook.com/SVEAChicago

For ooey-gooey goodness: Wildberry
 Pancakes & Cafe

Cinnamon spice and everything nice (like a warm vanilla glaze) is what these pancakes are all about. Every bite carries the perfect amount of sweet. If you visit the Randolph Street location, you and your kids can run off your sugar buzz across the street at Maggie Daley Park.

Locations in: Loop, Streeterville, Libertyville & Schaumburg; Online: wildberrycafe.com

For a healthy start: Prasino

Gluten-free? Vegetarian? Vegan? Prasino has ‘em all and they are all delicious. We’re partial to the carrot cakes (vegetarian) made with fresh grated carrot, cinnamon and nutmeg topped with raisins, sweet cream and candied pecans.

93 S. La Grange, La Grange; Online: prasino.com

For a lunchtime pancake: CornerStone Cafe

You've probably driven by the CornerStone Café a million times. Next time, stop for pancakes—especially at lunchtime when you can have pigs in a blanket. We’re talking old-school pigs in a blanket with two or three sausage links wrapped in some of the fluffiest pancakes you’ll ever eat.

2753 N. Western Ave., Bucktown & 2200 N. Clybourn, Lincoln Park; Online: chicagocornerstonecafe.com

By Popular Demand: The Original Pancake House

Chicagoans are passionate about The Original Pancake House. And who can blame us when their specialty is an apple pancake oven-baked with fresh granny smith apples and topped with cinnamon glaze?

19 Chicagoland locations; Online: originalpancakehouse.com

— Maria Chambers & Jen Peterson

RELATED STORIES:

10 Easy Pancake Recipes to Brighten Your Morning

Old-School Cool: Chicago Roller Skating Rinks You’ll Dig

Mug Shots: The Best Places to Sip Hot Chocolate in Chicago

There’s something irresistible about freshly baked bread, whether it’s chocolate chip banana bread or focaccia studded with vegetables. If you’ve got a free afternoon and a few cups of flour, head into the kitchen to make a loaf or two with your kiddos. Below, we’ve rounded up all our favorite bread recipes, everything from yeast-free quick bread to Challah bread and more. There’s even a garlic bread recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Read on to see them all.

Banana Bread

Sajia Hall via flickr

You can’t go wrong with this classic, especially if you’ve got some overripe bananas hanging around. Our Editorial Director swears by this banana bread recipe, which has plain yogurt to make it extra moist. Click here to check it out.

Zucchini Bread

Kimberly Reinhart via Flickr

Get some extra veggies into your kids with our favorite zucchini bread. It’s not too sweet, making it the perfect light breakfast or afternoon snack. To get the recipe, click here.

Pumpkin Bread

Tasty Kitchen

Pumpkin bread isn’t just for fall! With warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, it’s delicious enough to be added to your year-round rotation. Click here to get the recipe.

Pull-Apart Pizza Bread

FoodNetwork.com

Switch up pizza night with this awesome idea from FoodNetwork.com. Using store-bought pizza dough and your favorite toppings, this is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Honey Bread

franloomis via Pixabay

If you’ve got a gluten intolerance in your family, this pumpkin honey bread is a must. Flax seeds keep it moist and give an omega-3 boost, and you can add walnuts or chocolate chips for some extra flair. Click here to get the recipe.

Pizza Dough without Yeast

Inside the Rustic Kitchen

Need a pizza fix ASAP? Go for this instant pizza dough from Inside the Rustic Kitchen! It skips the rising time of your standard homemade pizza dough and can be whipped up in just about five minutes. Get the kids to help, and you'll be all set! Snag the recipe here.

Salsa Bread

A Taste of Madness

Color us impressed by this uber-creative idea from A Taste of Madness. Not only is it a bread recipe with no yeast, but it also gets a sneaky dose of flavor from salsa! Pair it with your fave soup or chili for a big dose of comfort food. Get the recipe here.

No-Yeast Cinnamon Rolls

The View From Great Island

Want to make your whole house smell like a bakery? Turn to these cinnamon rolls from The View From Great Island. It's a no-knead and no-rise recipe, so these rolls are ready to eat in under an hour. Don't forget the icing! Get the recipe here.

Chapati

Kitchen Sanctuary

Ready for some fun flatbread? The kiddos will love using this chapati (courtesy of Kitchen Sanctuary) to mop up soup, curries and stew. It only calls for a little bit of kneading and just five ingredients! Find the recipe here.

Irish Soda Bread

Dinner at the Zoo

There's no need (and no knead) to wait for St. Patrick's Day to enjoy this Irish Soda Bread from Dinner at the Zoo. It's perfect for raisin bread lovers and a great option when you can't decide between sweet and savory. Score the recipe here.

Easy Drop Biscuits

Erin Clarke of Well Plated

Ready for a batch of biscuits that's no-frills, flaky and fluffy? Trust us, it's way easier to make than to say. This dreamy recipe from Well Plated is delish as-is, but you can also add extras like cheese and herbs. Get the recipe here.

Gluten-Free Spring Lemon-Herb Popovers

Boulder Locavore

When you're feeling fancy, try perfecting these popovers from Boulder Locavore. They've got fresh flavor and are easily customizable if you have different herbs on hand. Pop over here for the recipe.

Scallion Pancakes

Rasa Malaysia

Forget your standard batter pancakes—these are actually a type of savory flatbread made from dough. They're super popular in China and Taiwan and a tasty way to bring something new to your dinner table. Get the recipe from Rasa Malaysia.

Sweet Cornbread

Kristine's Kitchen

There's a lot to love about this cornbread from Kristine's Kitchen. One of our favorite things is that the ingredients include unsweetened applesauce for a healthy kick. Try it for yourself with this recipe.

Focaccia Bread

Laughing Spatula

If you’ve never made yeasted bread before, focaccia is a great place to start. It’s a breeze to make with this recipe from Laughing Spatula, and you can easily make it by hand if you don’t have a stand mixer. Click here to get the recipe.

Sourdough Bread

The Clever Carrot

Ready to conquer sourdough bread? The Clever Carrot has everything you need to make the perfect loaf, from starters to shaping and rising the dough. Click here to get the scoop.

Olive Oil and Roasted Garlic Hamburger Buns

Gathered at My Table

Make your next barbecue extra special by making your own hamburger buns. This recipe from Gathered at My Table is simple but has great flavor thanks to the addition of roasted garlic. To get the recipe, click here.

Texas Toast Garlic Bread

Amanda Cooks & Styles

There’s nothing better than fresh garlic bread, especially when it’s served up Texas toast style. This version from Amanda Cooks & Styles is a winner, with a buttery mix of garlic and spices on top. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Yeasted Banana Sandwich Bread

Foods I Like

For a twist on classic sandwich bread, try this recipe from Foods I Like. The banana helps keep the bread tender and adds a subtle fruity taste—perfect for that PB&J sandwich. To get the recipe, click here.

Cinnamon Raisin Dutch Oven Bread

Elementary Kitchen

Break out the Dutch oven for this fabulous cinnamon raisin bread from Elementary Kitchen. It has a perfectly crunchy crust and a moist, tender interior. Grab the recipe by clicking here.

Fluffy French Bread

Eat. Dessert. Snack.

Everyone needs a basic French bread recipe and this one from Eat. Dessert. Snack. is a great pick. It's delicious fresh out of the oven or toasted for breakfast. To get the recipe, along with tips on how to make your loaf tall and fluffy, click here.

Homemade Challah

Scotch & Scones

Try your hand at homemade Challah with this great recipe from Scotch & Scones. The braiding process is easier than it looks, and it makes for a gorgeous finished product. Get all the details on how it’s done by clicking here.

Nutella Challah Braid

Natalie Levin of Lil’ Cookie

Want to take your challah to the next level? You can’t go wrong with this chocolate lover’s dream from Lil’ Cookie. To grab the recipe, click here.

Focaccia Bread Art

Ruchi’s Kitchen

Bread can be a work of art, like this pretty focaccia loaf from Ruchi’s Kitchen. The kids can help make designs on the bread using veggies like bell peppers, red onions and olives. Click here to get all the details.

Soft Dinner Rolls

The Subversive Table

These fluffy dinner rolls from The Subversive Table are just the thing to make your Sunday dinner special. The dough comes together mostly in the food processor with a little kneading by hand. To get the recipe, click here.

Chocolate Babka

Smitten Kitchen

For a slightly more ambitious (but still doable!) cooking project, you’ve got to try this chocolate babka from Smitten Kitchen. The braided bread is gorgeous once it’s baked, and it tastes even better than it looks. Click here to get the recipe.

Soft Pretzel Bites

The Tailgate Foodie

Soft pretzel lovers, take note! These bites from The Tailgate Foodie make the perfect appetizer for game day or any day. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce (ketchup, ranch, cheese—the possibilities are endless), these will disappear in no time. Get the recipe by clicking here.

Japanese Milk Bread

Simmer Sauce

If you’ve never tried Japanese milk bread, now is the time! This recipe from Simmer + Sauce creates a springy, soft loaf with a hint of sweetness. It’s made through a unique process involving a roux. Click here to grab the recipe.

Cheddar Chive Biscuits

Fixed on Fresh

These buttery biscuits from Fixed on Fresh are delicious and super easy to make. The dough can be made in the food processor in minutes, and adding cheddar cheese and chives gives it an extra flavor boost. To get the recipe, click here.

—Susie Foresman & Abigail Matsumoto

 

RELATED STORIES:

Cooking with Kids: 12 Bread Recipes You Can Make without Yeast

Our Favorite New Family Cookbooks

60+ Slow Cooker Recipes We’re Obsessed With